Parent Letter

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Parents-A Quick Thought on Testing

Parents, you are the true experts on your child. You know how they learn best. You have watched their tendencies. Your child may devour books, reading whenever they get the chance. Maybe your child picks up sports very quickly, or has to talk things through to understand. These observations are important insights in understanding the best methods to teach your child. Please keep in mind that standardized tests like the former MSP and the current Smarter Balance Test only give a small glimpse into your child's learning. Since these assessments primarily focus on only 2 of the 8 learning intellligences, these tests are valuable but are not the whole picture. While this type of testing is limited, I assure you that the assessments used throughout this year in history will allow your child to express understanding through a broad range of methods. Please partner with me so we can help your child build confidence in the adventure of learning.

A Special Thanks to Moms and Dads

As a parent of 3 teenagers, I can honestly look you in the face and say "I understand." These years are challenging. I sometimes am asked why it seems to work well within my class. As parents we are very aware of the uniqueness of Middle School students. They are the masters of pop-culture. They know every new technology. They know the latest trends in fashion, music, movies, television, and products. As parents and as teachers, if we can tap into that knowledge, we have a greater ability to communicate in terms that are relevant to our kids. Of course we don't want to become one of them (they need adult models more than ever) but we do need an awareness of their world. Parents, you are my heroes. You work your behinds off everyday because you love your kids. My hope is that I can be an extension of all of you within the classroom. With Great Appreciation, Randy Johnson